Legislative and Public Policy Committee and Action Plan for 2009 - 2010

Legislative and Public Policy

Mission

To promote mutually beneficial relationships by supporting the employment of all persons with disabilities in jobs and careers of their choice.

 Belief Statements

• We believe employment is the avenue to community and economic opportunity and independence.
• We believe people have the right and responsibility to control the direction of their lives.

• We believe in inclusion and the opportunity for full participation in the community.

• We believe supports and services should be of the highest quality, person centered, and delivered with a sense of urgency.

• We believe in promoting the involvement and participation of a diverse membership.

• We believe networking and leadership are key to advancing community employment.

• We believe effecting public policy to promote inclusive employment is vital.

• We believe that community employment is possible for anyone who chooses to work.

 APSE MO Legislative Priorities for 2008 

• Support ongoing Cost of Living increases to community service providers (including employment providers) in order to competitively compensate direct support professionals.
• Identify and support methods to provide long-term employment supports to individuals that may not qualify for s Medicaid Waiver or other long-term support program (i.e. TBI, MI).
• Support the use of the Association for Community Rehabilitation Educators (ACRE) national certification program and standards as the measure of competency for employment professionals.
• Support implementation and dissemination of information on the Ticket to Work Health Assurance Program.
• Advocate for continued development and funding of the College of Direct Support statewide training and credentialing program for the State of Missouri.

For more information on how to contact your state legislators, go to www.moga.state.mo.us and click on legislative lookup!

APSE MO welcomes all members and prospective members' involvement! Please contact us for referral information or volunteer opportunities! We need your help!

Contact: Wendy Hays at: whays@loqw.com